GCSE Success Across The Wensum Trust

There were great reasons to celebrate across our trust as schools revealed their GCSE results.

Alderman Peel celebrated the best results the school has ever recorded, and Headteacher Matt Hardman said the entire school community was proud of the achievements of everyone involved.

“They are the best results that the school has ever achieved and put us in the top flight of results for English and Maths across the County," he said. "I am so grateful for the hard work from all staff across the school and the support we have had from parents throughout their time with us."

He added: “Within the results, there are some outstanding individual performances with students achieving grades 7 to 9, those all important 4s and 5s, but also students who have worked really hard to achieve grades 1, 2 and 3. We are delighted to achieve all of those results equally. We wish all of our students the very best for their next steps.”

The school was also featured on Anglia News as a team from the TV station joined students and staff for the morning.

Staff and students at Acle Academy were also celebrating after another year of strong academic results.

Executive Principal Helen Watts said: “We are delighted with the overall and personal results for our 2025 cohort who have shown great determination and aspiration to achieve their personal best in their GCSEs."

Morgan Seddon, who achieved seven grade 9s a distinction and a grade 8, said: “ I am so happy with my results, I can’t believe it!”

Mrs Watts said everyone was delighted with the personal achievements of the students, particularly those with Special Educational Needs and/or Disability (SEND).

“They have achieved fantastic results including many grades 9s and 8s. Tommy Bray, who has an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) achieved an amazing set of results, including two grade 9s and 4 grade 8s. 

Reacting to his results, Tommy said: “I’m so thrilled and I just want to keep on studying now” 

Mrs Bray, Tommy’s Mum, added: “When Tommy started in Year 7, we didn’t think he would survive in mainstream. He couldn’t stay in a classroom in primary school, so we are so absolutely delighted that he has made it this far and achieved such wonderful results. We are so grateful to the amazing team at Acle that has supported him so well."

Mrs Watts continued: “It is testament to our inclusive culture that children with additional needs achieve so well at Acle Academy. 

“I am particularly grateful to our wonderful staff who make our school community such a supportive and caring environment which helps our students to thrive. 

"Our staff see the potential in every child and work relentlessly to help children achieve amazing success which builds strong foundations for their future.

"Well done to all students, staff and families who are celebrating the culmination of their hard work today.”

Mike Earl, Principal at Hellesdon High School, praised his Year 11 cohort for its hard work and dedication in achieving a strong set of results. “They have worked incredibly hard throughout the year and truly deserve the results they've achieved," he said. "Their hard work and commitment have paid off, and these results are a testament to their resilience, determination, and passion to succeed.

“As they move forward to the next chapter - whether it's at Sixth Form, College, Apprenticeships, or stepping into the workplace - we wish them all the very best for the future. 

"We have no doubt they will continue to achieve their goals and make a positive impact in whatever path they choose."

He added: “We also like to take a moment to thank the teachers, mentors, and families who have supported them along the way. 

"Your guidance and encouragement have been crucial to their success."